Preschools give jobless a hand

by Sonu Munshi – Jul. 17, 2010

The Arizona Republic

Imagine researching a company to a T, ironing your best duds for an interview and then taking your snotty-nosed toddler who is likely to cry or scream along to face a potential employer in an interview.

Peoria resident George Gormsen doesn’t have to imagine. The 31-year-old Web designer had the pleasure twice after he found himself in the unemployment market between November and June.

With his wife, Renee, working during the day, his daughter, Lorelai, now 14 months old, tagged along on interviews.

“That just didn’t look professional at all,” Gormsen said.

Shockingly, he didn’t land either position. He’s sure Lorelai’s presence was at least part of the reason.

But Gormsen is now back to work at a Peoria car dealership, and he can’t thank a Peoria day-care provider enough.

The Peoria dad was able to interview without Lorelai in tow, thanks to a free trial day at Sunrise Preschools.

The nearly 30-year-old Valley preschool, along with Tots Unlimited, another preschool and child-care center owned by the same company, is offering Interview Care, a free, no-strings-attached service to Valley parents of children ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

Dana Vela, president of Sunrise Preschools, hopes the offer of free licensed child care for unemployed parents to use when they go for an interview helps the community.

“There is a definite need out there,” she said.

The creative offer could have a longer-range benefit, helping to boost enrollment at a time when preschools are struggling as parents lose jobs.

The offer is open at all Valley locations on a space-available basis for an undetermined period.

Parents must make reservations in advance for up to four hours of care. Immunizations and other information are required.